One of the most spectacular places in the Basque Country: a scenic coastal trail leads to the hermitage of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, connected to the mainland by a picturesque stone bridge and a staircase of 241 steps overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.
  • Why we love it
    San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is one of those places that feels straight out of a legend. The trail winds along the coast of the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve, offering breathtaking views of dramatic cliffs and the Atlantic Ocean. Crossing the stone bridge and climbing the 241 steps to the ancient hermitage is an unforgettable experience, made even more famous by Game of Thrones, where this magical location became Dragonstone, the ancestral seat of House Targaryen. The combination of wild nature, history, spirituality and spectacular coastal scenery makes this one of the finest hikes in the Basque Country.
  • Travelling time: 1 h 30 min – 2 h
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Length: 3 km
  • Total Elevation Gain: 220 m
  • Way to travel: On foot
  • Cost: 0
  • Our Advice: Book your free entrance ticket in advance during peak periods, especially in summer and on public holidays. Wear hiking shoes or comfortable walking shoes with good grip, as the trail includes steep sections and many stone steps. Bring plenty of water and sun protection, since most of the route is exposed to the sun. Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the busiest hours and enjoy the best light for photography. If the weather is windy or rainy, take extra care on the stone staircase, which can become slippery.

San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is one of the most iconic places in the Basque Country and one of the most spectacular hikes along Spain's Atlantic coast. Located between Bilbao and Bermeo, this stunning rocky islet is connected to the mainland by an ancient stone bridge and a scenic 241-step staircase leading up to the Hermitage of Saint John the Baptist, suspended between the sky and the ocean.

The 241-step staircase leading to the Hermitage of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, seen from above, in the Basque Country
The spectacular staircase of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, made famous by Game of Thrones. Photo: Silvia Ombellini.

The name Gaztelugatxe comes from the Basque language and means "castle on the rock", a name that perfectly describes this headland overlooking the Cantabrian Sea. According to tradition, this is where Saint John the Baptist landed, leaving three miraculous footprints on the rock as he climbed to the summit. One of these footprints can still be seen near the hermitage and, according to legend, placing your foot in it brings good luck.

Map of the hiking route to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe

The trail starts from the main car park, where a well-marked path crosses meadows and cliffs with magnificent views of the Atlantic Ocean. The first part of the route is downhill and offers several panoramic viewpoints overlooking the islet and the winding stone bridge connecting it to the coast.

Scenic trail to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and the cliffs of the Basque coast.
The first section of the trail offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Basque cliffs. Photo: Silvia Ombellini.

After about 20 minutes of walking, you reach the stone bridge, where the climb to the hermitage begins.

Ancient stone bridge connecting the mainland to the islet of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, where the climb to the hermitage begins.
The charming stone bridge marks the beginning of the climb to the Hermitage of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe. Photo: Silvia Ombellini.

The most exciting part of the hike is undoubtedly the 241-step staircase, which climbs along the rocky cliff, revealing increasingly spectacular views of the Biscay coastline and the waves crashing against the base of the island. Every bend offers a different perspective and invites you to stop for photos or simply admire the scenery.

Panoramic view of the Atlantic Ocean, the cliffs, and the Basque coastline along the San Juan de Gaztelugatxe trail.
Along the trail, the views over the Atlantic Ocean and the Basque coastline are truly unforgettable. Photo: Silvia Ombellini.

The hermitage at the top has ancient origins. Although the current building is the result of several reconstructions, the first place of worship is believed to date back at least to the 9th century. Throughout its history, it has served as a monastery, a lookout point, and a fortification against pirate attacks, as well as a place of devotion for fishermen and sailors, who still entrust themselves to Saint John for protection before setting sail.

The Hermitage of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe with its iconic bell overlooking the Atlantic Ocean from the top of the islet in the Basque Country.
The Hermitage of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe and its famous bell, a symbol of centuries-old tradition. Photo: Silvia Ombellini.

According to tradition, once you reach the top, you can ring the hermitage bell three times as a symbol of good luck, although this custom may be temporarily suspended to protect the nesting seabirds that inhabit the surrounding cliffs. The viewpoints next to the hermitage offer extraordinary views over the Basque coastline and the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve.

Ceramic tile depicting Saint John the Baptist with the inscription "San Juan de Gaztelugatxe" at the entrance to the hermitage in the Basque Country.
The traditional ceramic tile dedicated to Saint John the Baptist welcomes visitors to the Hermitage of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe. Photo: Silvia Ombellini.

San Juan de Gaztelugatxe gained worldwide fame thanks to the TV series Game of Thrones, which digitally transformed it into Dragonstone, the fortress of Daenerys Targaryen, during the seventh season. Although the castle itself was added using visual effects, the spectacular staircase and the surrounding landscape are entirely real, making this one of the most photographed places in northern Spain.

The hike requires a reasonable level of fitness. The route is approximately 3 km (1.9 miles) round trip, with an elevation gain of around 220 metres, including an initial descent followed by the final climb back up to the parking area. It is advisable to wear hiking shoes or sturdy walking shoes with good grip, bring plenty of water—especially during the summer months—and check the weather forecast before your visit, as strong winds and rain can make the climb more challenging.

The Hermitage of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe seen from the coast, surrounded by lush vegetation and overlooking the Atlantic cliffs in the Basque Country.
The Hermitage of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe rises above the lush Basque coastline, suspended between the sky and the ocean. Photo: Silvia Ombellini.

To protect this extraordinary natural and cultural heritage from overtourism, access to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is regulated. During the busiest periods, it is necessary to book your free entry on the official website of the Provincial Council of Bizkaia. The number of visitors is limited to 1,462 people per day, a measure designed to preserve the coastal ecosystem, reduce trail erosion, and ensure a more enjoyable and sustainable visitor experience. At certain times of the year or early in the morning, access may also be possible without a reservation, but this is never guaranteed and depends on visitor numbers and the instructions of the staff on site. For this reason, it is always advisable to check the visitor access calendar and book in advance.

The Hermitage of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe seen from the coast, perched on the rocky islet connected to the mainland by a stone bridge, in the Basque Country.
The Hermitage of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe dominates the Atlantic Ocean from the top of its spectacular rocky islet. Photo: Silvia Ombellini.

After reaching the hermitage, you can either return to the parking area along the same route or continue on foot along the spectacular coastline. A beautiful scenic hiking trail connects San Juan de Gaztelugatxe with the beach of Bakio or the Matxitxako Lighthouse, following the cliffs and offering magnificent views over the Atlantic Ocean. The complete route is approximately 5.7 km (3.5 miles) long, with an elevation gain of 220 metres, making it an excellent choice for anyone wishing to extend their hike while immersed in the natural beauty of the Basque coastline.

At the end of the hike, it is well worth visiting the picturesque harbour of Bermeo, exploring the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve, recognised by UNESCO for its extraordinary natural heritage, or relaxing on the beach at Bakio, famous for its long waves and particularly popular with surfers.

Author: Silvia Ombellini